Events in March–May 2024

  • - NTRAK Model Trains Running!
    NTRAK Model Trains Running!

    NTRAK Model Trains Running!


    March 17, 2024

    Northern Virginia NTRAK Club will be running trains at the Museum! NTRAK was originally established as an NTRAK club in 1991. NTRAK is a modular railroad system based on standards developed by the NTRAK Modular Railroading Society. The basic philosophy behind NTRAK modular design is that it allows the N-scale modeler to build a basic unit, affectionately called a “plain old four footer” or POFF, and to participate in N-scale model train layouts with other N-scale model railroaders.

    The basic NTRAK module is two feet wide, four feet long and 40 inches high. The standards provide for the placement of the three rail main lines (Red, Yellow, and Blue) and the recommended wiring standards to allow for the joining together of unlimited numbers of other similarly designed NTRAK modules. The modular design of the NTRAK also provides for mountain train lines and passing sidings; allowing for a variety set up options. The basic three mainline design permits the operation of at least one train per line at all times. Additional trains can be run using block controls for analog operation or using digital command control throttles.

    As always, we have openings for new volunteers and would love to discuss volunteer opportunities with you on site that day or right now by filling out the form on our new website!

  • - NTRAK Model Trains Running!
    NTRAK Model Trains Running!

    NTRAK Model Trains Running!


    April 21, 2024

    Northern Virginia NTRAK Club will be running trains at the Museum! NTRAK was originally established as an NTRAK club in 1991. NTRAK is a modular railroad system based on standards developed by the NTRAK Modular Railroading Society. The basic philosophy behind NTRAK modular design is that it allows the N-scale modeler to build a basic unit, affectionately called a “plain old four footer” or POFF, and to participate in N-scale model train layouts with other N-scale model railroaders.

    The basic NTRAK module is two feet wide, four feet long and 40 inches high. The standards provide for the placement of the three rail main lines (Red, Yellow, and Blue) and the recommended wiring standards to allow for the joining together of unlimited numbers of other similarly designed NTRAK modules. The modular design of the NTRAK also provides for mountain train lines and passing sidings; allowing for a variety set up options. The basic three mainline design permits the operation of at least one train per line at all times. Additional trains can be run using block controls for analog operation or using digital command control throttles.

    As always, we have openings for new volunteers and would love to discuss volunteer opportunities with you on site that day or right now by filling out the form on our new website!

  • - HO Scale Model Trains - Potomac Model Crew
    HO Scale Model Trains - Potomac Model Crew

    HO Scale Model Trains - Potomac Model Crew


    April 28, 2024

    The Potomac Module Crew will display HO model trains!

    The Potomac Module Crew consists of model railroaders in the greater DC area who have an interest in modular model railroading. We model in HO Scale. A module is a section of a model railroad built to a minimal set of standard dimensions, track locations, and electrical connections. We use the NMRA Module Standard that supports modeling in all scales (O, HO, N, and Z scale). The basic standards cover:

        • The distance from the end of the module to the main track,
        • The height of the top of the rail from the floor,
        • The number of common tracks and the distance between them,
        • The electrical connections between modules

    The type of scenery displayed is determined by the imagination and creativity of the builder. The scene depicted on a module can be anything: rural, industrial, agricultural, urban, mountainous, prairie-like, or any combination. The time period modeled is also left up to the wishes of the modeler.

    The use of modules enables the creation of a section of railroad without a major investment in time, space or money. For example, creating a module using only straight track and using the standard dimensions of 2' x 4' can be made for about $50.00. Installing the minimal amount of track and electrical items will add about another $30.00 to the overall cost. Building modules is a great way to develop and improve key modelling skills such as laying track, ballasting track, performing basic electrical wiring, and creating scenery before building your dream layout. A module is also easy to transport and store when not in use.

    As always, we have openings for new volunteers and would love to discuss volunteer opportunities with you on site that day or right now by filling out the form on our new website!

  • - NTRAK Model Trains Running!
    NTRAK Model Trains Running!

    NTRAK Model Trains Running!


    May 19, 2024

    Northern Virginia NTRAK Club will be running trains at the Museum! NTRAK was originally established as an NTRAK club in 1991. NTRAK is a modular railroad system based on standards developed by the NTRAK Modular Railroading Society. The basic philosophy behind NTRAK modular design is that it allows the N-scale modeler to build a basic unit, affectionately called a “plain old four footer” or POFF, and to participate in N-scale model train layouts with other N-scale model railroaders.

    The basic NTRAK module is two feet wide, four feet long and 40 inches high. The standards provide for the placement of the three rail main lines (Red, Yellow, and Blue) and the recommended wiring standards to allow for the joining together of unlimited numbers of other similarly designed NTRAK modules. The modular design of the NTRAK also provides for mountain train lines and passing sidings; allowing for a variety set up options. The basic three mainline design permits the operation of at least one train per line at all times. Additional trains can be run using block controls for analog operation or using digital command control throttles.

    As always, we have openings for new volunteers and would love to discuss volunteer opportunities with you on site that day or right now by filling out the form on our new website!